THE leader of the Inverclyde Council SNP group has leapt to the defence of Alex Salmond - after donating to the former first minister's legal fund.

Councillor Chris McEleny has pledged cash towards the ex-party chief's fight to clear his name following sexual harassment allegations, which Mr Salmond strongly denies.

The former first minister resigned as a member of the SNP on Wednesday but has vowed to rejoin at the end of his legal battle.

In the wake of the sexual misconduct claims, Mr Salmond set up an online fundraising page to help pay for his court fees and Mr McEleny is among thousands of supporters who have made pledges.

Over £90,000 has been raised so far, smashing the initial £50,000 target.

Mr McEleny says he is fully behind the former first minister, who he cites as a major influence on his life along with his father and fellow elected member Jim McEleny.

He said: "Alex's resignation is a very sad moment and almost feels like the end of an era.

"Throughout my life, two people have influenced my politics more than any others, one is my father and the other is Alex Salmond.

"Alex's resignation is the measure of the man and it's true statesmanship, reminding me of when he resigned as first minister in 2014.

"There has been much faux outrage over his crowdfunding efforts, crowdfunding is a simple concept, if you don't want to donate, then don't.

"It's almost as if in modern day Scotland some are suggesting a person doesn't have the right to defend themselves.

"Innocent until proven guilty is the hallmark of our entire legal system, it seems people have forgotten that of late."

Mr Salmond, who was a member of the SNP for 45 years and leader for two decades, says he quit to avoid the party being subjected to attacks by opposition parties.

He is the subject of a Scottish Government probe over claims of sexual harassment during his time as first minister.

Police Scotland are also now investigating the allegations.

Mr Salmond is taking the government, which he led from 2007-14, to court of its handling of the complaints.

Councillor McEleny said: "People need to step back and allow due process to follow, and that may be a timely and costly experience."